AP Brain Camp this week in District 218

Nearly 200 students from Richards and Eisenhower high schools will participate in AP Brain Camp this week. Today features a number of academic workshops that will help them flourish in the academic rigor of their AP classes next year.

Selections, like this one of social studies teacher Adam McAllister leading the Harvard notes session last year, include:

HARVARD AND CORNELL NOTE TAKING: Learn how to quickly and effectively take academic notes. This session overviews how to read for main idea, find supporting evidence, and annotate the text to guide your studying. Success is not given; it is earned through hard work and active reading. This session is required for all 1st year AP students and optional for others.

EFFECTIVE STUDYING: Crunched for time? Unsure on how to organize your learning? This workshop goes over the ways in which you can maximize your studying in order to score on your exams. You will learn various study and test taking skills that keeps learning at the forefront.

“BRANDING” YOU!: The 21st century professional has to keep track of their online and in person image at all times. You will learn the ethics and better decision making skills to protect yourself in the classroom and eventual workplace. We will discuss the ways in which you can build your resume, clean up your personal online accounts, and market your best self for the future.

PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION WITH ADULTS: Avoid future problems by learning the best ways to talk to your teachers, counselors, and other adults. This workshop overviews how to be a “self-advocate” without offending others. You will learn ways in which electronic communication can be misinterpreted and how to prevent those pitfalls. We will also teach you how to use the Skyward calendar to set up reminders and create your planner.

HEALTHY LIVING: Diet, rest, exercise, and relaxation do not seem synonymous with the AP student. However, these are the keys to a success in one’s life and on the AP exams. Learn about the ways to manage your stress through this workshop.

DISCUSSION/PRESENTATION SKILLS: Afraid of speaking in public? Wanting to talk but don’t know what to say? This workshop will investigate the different qualities of effective public speakers and how to incorporate those skills into your learning. Work with the teacher and students in a collaborative, safe, and fun atmosphere to sharpen speaking skills!

THE COLLEGE TIMELINE: Whether you are the first or 21st person in your family to go to college, many need help with the timelines for applications and financial aid. This workshop will provide an overview of when and how to look for the schools that are best suited to your needs. You will learn about the value of a college visit, the types of schools that are out there, how to prepare your references and essays.